Warwick, RI – The RI Developmental Disabilities Council’s (RIDDC) Self Employment Project announced today that it has not only been gaining momentum within the state, but it is receiving recognition as a model to be presented across the country on Tuesday, December 8, from 2-3 pm EST. The state of Georgia Community of Practice, which works on helping people with Developmental Disabilities gain employment, is organized by Doug Crandell, who will host the zoom conference. Sue Babin, RIDDC special projects manager of the self employment project, will present the “Self Employment: Spirit of Enterprise,” which focuses on building an incubator in RI through entrepreneurship education and ongoing business support.
Speaking of their working relationship at the outset of RI’s program, “We have enlisted Doug’s insights and support on best practices for people with disabilities as we roll out each new set of classes.” Babin noted his work as a consultant with the RIDDC project, providing information about similar efforts around the country, and drawing on his experience in twenty other states. We’ve been excited by his enthusiasm for our efforts.
“The work that Rhode Island has implemented is the most innovative Self-Employment project in the country,” noted Doug Crandell.
Ms. Babin’s segment of the presentation will feature several businesses where she has helped people with disabilities and their families start, operate, and turn a profit. Included in the discussion will be the role self-directed waiver services plays in self-employment.
RIDDC’s Self Employment project consists of eight business classes, now offered online, ranging from determining whether entrepreneurship is right for the individual, to starting a business, preparing an elevator pitch, as well as a marketing plan, a financial plan and a business plan. Instructors are industry professionals, who then follow-up with ongoing one-on one mentoring and guidance. In addition, staff support is provided to assist those who need specific help, whether technical or personal. Throughout the pandemic, additional weekly zoom meetings have given the fledgling entrepreneurs opportunities to share their challenges and successes and get feedback from the participating professional. The business development series is now in its third year, with nine rounds of classes, and with eighty participants having completed the program.
For added inspiration for each participant, and to create a real-life, practical business opportunity, Babin created an Elevator Pitch competition, with a small monetary grant award to the top presenters.
Acknowledging the original source of support for this program, Babin credits the RI Department of Labor and Training (RI/DLT) who awarded a grant to launch and conduct the program through their “Real Pathways RI Initiative”. “From the outset, this grant has attested to the DLT’s belief in what we are doing, as well as for the people for whom we are doing it, notes Babin.
“I am thrilled to have RI’s effort’s gain recognition, and to share the benefits of our experience, along with the experience of other organizations with whom we’ve collaborated.”